People with Rett Syndrome in New Hampshire may qualify for federal disability programs like SSI and SSDI, as well as state Medicaid and home and community-based services. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security's strict definition of disability. This means you cannot do any substantial work due to your condition, and it must last at least 12 months or result in death. Rett Syndrome usually meets these criteria because it causes severe physical and cognitive impairments. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those who have worked and paid into Social Security. Both programs require medical evidence and ongoing review of your condition.
Citations: Social Security Disability Qualification (accessed 2025-11-06)
New Hampshire does not have a state disability program. Residents must apply for federal SSI and SSDI. However, New Hampshire Medicaid offers long-term care and home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including Rett Syndrome. To qualify for Medicaid, you must meet income and asset limits. For example, in 2025, a single applicant for Nursing Home Medicaid must have income under $2,901/month and assets under $2,500 (with an asset disregard up to $7,500). Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) also follow these limits and require a need for nursing home-level care.
Learn more about Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)
Citations: New Hampshire Medicaid Eligibility 2025 (accessed 2025-11-06)
Learn more about SSI & SSDI Work Incentives
Learn more about Avoiding Overpayments & Reporting Changes
Citations: Social Security Disability Application (accessed 2025-11-06), New Hampshire Medicaid Application (accessed 2025-11-06)
Learn more about Medicaid vs Medicare
New Hampshire does not have a state disability program. However, the state offers Medicaid for long-term care and home and community-based services (HCBS) for people with disabilities, including Rett Syndrome. Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) help people receive care at home or in the community instead of in a nursing home. To qualify, you must meet income and asset limits and need nursing home-level care. Regular Medicaid (Old Age Assistance) is for those needing help with daily activities and has lower income limits.
Learn more about Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)
Citations: New Hampshire Medicaid Eligibility 2025 (accessed 2025-11-06)
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. In New Hampshire, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s ABLE program. The account can hold up to $100,000 without affecting SSI, and up to $100,000 in assets can be disregarded for Medicaid eligibility. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free.
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
For SSI in New Hampshire, the federal income limit is $914/month for individuals and $1,371/month for couples in 2025. For SSDI, there is no income limit, but you must not earn more than the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level ($1,550/month in 2025). For Medicaid, the income limit is $2,901/month for Nursing Home Medicaid and $981/month for Regular Medicaid (Old Age Assistance) for singles in 2025.
Learn more about SSI Income Estimator
It is important to report all changes in income, assets, or medical status to Social Security and Medicaid agencies to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands and affect future benefits. Keep records of all reports and communications with agencies. If you receive an overpayment notice, contact the agency immediately to discuss repayment options.
Contact your local Social Security office or New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services for help with applications and questions.
Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that mostly affects girls, causing severe physical and cognitive impairments. It usually qualifies for federal disability benefits due to its impact on daily living and ability to work.
No, New Hampshire does not have a state disability program. Residents must apply for federal SSI and SSDI programs for disability benefits.
You can apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and documentation of your condition.
For Nursing Home Medicaid, the income limit is $2,901/month for singles in 2025. For Regular Medicaid (Old Age Assistance), it is $981/month for singles. Asset limits also apply.
Yes, people with Rett Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid in New Hampshire if they meet income and asset limits and need nursing home-level care or help with daily activities.
Medicaid Waivers (HCBS) help people with disabilities receive care at home or in the community instead of in a nursing home. They require meeting income and asset limits and a need for nursing home-level care.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
Join thousands of families who trust Purple to protect their benefits
Purple is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by OMB Bank, Member FDIC.
You can open an ABLE account through New Hampshire’s ABLE program. The account allows tax-free savings for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Most initial applications are rejected, so be prepared to file for reconsideration or request a hearing.
You must report changes in income, assets, or medical status as soon as they occur to avoid overpayments and ensure continued eligibility for benefits.
Yes, there are work incentives for people with disabilities, including programs that allow you to work and keep some benefits. These incentives help you transition to employment without losing essential support.
